DRC President Tshisekedi Agrees to Direct Talks with M23 Rebels in Luanda

President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC has agreed to direct talks with the M23 rebels, guided by Angolan mediation. This represents a significant shift from his previous stance against negotiations. The upcoming discussions, which aim for a lasting peace, will be closely monitored for commitment from both sides to ceasefire and dialogue amid ongoing humanitarian crises in eastern DRC.

In a significant diplomatic development, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has consented to direct negotiations with the M23 rebel group after meetings with Angolan President João Lourenço in Luanda. Angola will act as a key mediator, establishing contact with the M23 to facilitate dialogue between the rebel faction and the DRC government.

An official statement released from Luanda’s Presidential Palace indicated, “Following His Excellency Félix Tshisekedi’s brief working visit to Luanda, the Angolan side… will establish contacts with the M23… to carry out direct negotiations… in Luanda in the next few days, with a view to negotiating definitive peace in that brother country.”

Following Angola’s announcement, Tina Salama, the DRC presidential spokesperson, expressed cautious optimism, affirming Kinshasa’s dedication to existing diplomatic frameworks. “We take note and wait to see the implementation of this approach by the Angolan mediation… we reaffirm our commitment to Resolution 2773,” stated Salama. This resolution and the Nairobi Process, led by the East African Community, form the basis of ongoing peace negotiations.

Tshisekedi’s agreement to engage directly with M23 signifies a notable policy shift, moving away from a previously unwavering stance against negotiations in favor of military action. The M23 has captured critical areas, such as Goma and Bukavu, advocating for talks by claiming to defend Congolese Tutsis against discrimination.

As international pressure mounts to mitigate the conflict and avert further humanitarian crises, the European Union, United States, and United Kingdom have condemned M23’s actions, urging Rwanda to cease its military support. The United Nations Security Council has also called for a prompt ceasefire and a return to negotiations.

Angola’s mediation is anticipated to support the ongoing Nairobi and Luanda peace processes, which aim for political resolutions rather than ongoing hostilities. The effectiveness of these upcoming negotiations hinges on both parties’ commitment to a ceasefire and constructive dialogue.

Observers will be vigilant regarding whether M23 will cease military operations in North and South Kivu, and if the DRC government will remain devoted to the peace talks, with regional players such as Rwanda and Uganda also needing to back the mediation efforts. Given the significant humanitarian ramifications and ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, the imminent talks in Luanda could be pivotal in establishing enduring peace.

In conclusion, the Democratic Republic of Congo has taken a crucial step towards potentially ending conflict by agreeing to direct negotiations with the M23 rebels. This decision, influenced by regional mediation from Angola and international pressures, reflects a significant shift in policy. The success of these negotiations will largely depend on the commitment of both the DRC government and the M23 to cease hostilities and engage in meaningful dialogue, offering a glimmer of hope for a resolution to ongoing strife in the region.

Original Source: chimpreports.com